Topic Contents

Storing Insulin and Prefilling Syringes

Topic Overview

Insulin can become damaged and ineffective if it is
not stored properly.

Unopened insulin that is packaged in small glass
bottles (vials) should be stored in the refrigerator.

Insulin that
is packaged in small cartridges (containing several doses) is more stable. It
may be kept unrefrigerated, but it will last longer if it is kept in the
refrigerator. Insulin cartridges are used in pen-shaped devices (insulin pens)
with attached disposable needles.

Always read the insulin package information that tells the best way
to store your insulin.

You can keep open bottles with you if you keep them in a dark place.
The bottles should not be exposed to temperatures below
36°F (2.2°C) or above
86°F (30°C). Never leave
insulin in the sun or in your hot car, because sunlight and heat reduces the strength of the insulin.

Avoid shaking insulin bottles and cartridges too much to prevent loss
of medicine strength and to prevent clumping, frosting, or particles settling
out. Follow the storage information provided by the manufacturer.

The first time you use an insulin bottle, write the date on the
bottle label. Always store an extra bottle of each type of your insulin in the
refrigerator.

If you cannot prepare an
insulin dose but can give the injection, you may need
someone to prepare your insulin dose for you. A family member, friend, or
health professional can prefill insulin syringes for you. If you prefill
syringes:

Store prefilled syringes in the refrigerator with
the needle pointing up to prevent insulin from blocking the needle opening.
Syringes filled with one type of insulin (rather than mixed insulin) will keep
for about a month. Read and follow all instructions on the label.

Store different doses separately. For example, if your
morning dose is different from your evening dose, have a different container
for morning and evening injections.

Before using a prefilled
syringe, allow the syringe to warm for 5 to 10 minutes. Gently roll the syringe
between your hands to warm the insulin. If the syringe contains a cloudy
insulin, make sure all of the white powder is dissolved before giving the
shot.

Another option is to use an insulin pen. You do not have to
put insulin into a syringe. You put a cartridge of insulin into the
pen. Don't share insulin pens with anyone else who uses insulin. Even when the needle is changed, an insulin pen can carry bacteria or blood that can make another person sick.

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